Do I Need To Pre-Order Windshield Or Can I Get Windshield of Any Car Model

Your car windshield is one of the most vital components of your vehicle. It is responsible for maintaining the car’s structural integrity and providing support to its roof. The windshield protects the driver, passengers and the interior of the car from dust, debris and other unwanted elements.

In modern cars, the windshield also plays a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) - lane departure warning, heated viper/windshield, collision avoidance, etc. Because of this component’s varied applications, purchasing a windshield for your vehicle is serious business. A common question you may have when thinking of purchasing car glass is if you need to pre-order it or a standard one will do for your vehicle.

But before we go into the details, let us understand some basic concepts related to the windshield in car.

What is the windshield in car made of?

A windshield is typically made of laminated glass, a type of safety glass manufactured by sandwiching a layer of a plastic polymer resin polyvinyl butyral (PVB) between two sheets of glass. The primary advantage of laminated glass is that it is impact resistant. In case of serious damage, the PVB will prevent the windshield from shattering. In the unlikely event that it does shatter, the glass will break in small cuboid shapes instead of sharp shards, thus limiting injury to passengers.

The windshield in car goes through multiple safety checks and quality control checks before being fitted into a vehicle. It may also be UV-coated to protect the occupants from the harmful effects of sun rays.

Things to check before pre-ordering a windshield

If your windshield in car has suffered damage, you will need to order a replacement depending on its size and severity. Before doing so, you need to confirm the extent of damage, the model number, compatibility with the car, etc.

However, not all types of damages to your windshield warrant a replacement. The size, severity, location and extent of the damage are major factors involved in the evaluation process.

If the size of the crack or chip is less than 40 millimetres, it can be repaired. Also, if the chip damages only the first layer of glass and not the PVB layer (the second one), the windshield may not need to be replaced. However, if the damaged caused on the windshield obstructs the view of the driver, or there are multiple damage points on the screen, it is vital to get it checked immediately by a professional. Additionally, the chip may qualify for a repair, but if it is at the edge of the windshield, you may have to replace it.

When it comes to windshield compatibility with a car model, one size doesn’t fit all. You can find out if a windshield is compatible with your car by cross referencing the model number with the one on your damaged windshield. Alternatively, you can consult your car manual to find compatible model numbers. It is recommended to engage an expert to avoid any scope for error.

In short, the evaluation of a damaged windshield is a critical and intricate process that requires professional knowledge. However, not all kinds of damages need replacement; some of them can also be repaired. That is why it is advisable to consult a professional for your windshield damage rather than pre-ordering without adequate knowledge.

OEM or aftermarket - which is the best windshield in car?

This is a much-debated topic in the automobile industry, and the answer is clear. Multiple windshield manufacturers use their own production methods, resulting in products of different quality.

With Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)-grade glass, you are assured to receive a windshield identical to the one originally fitted in your vehicle. This is the highest quality auto glass in the market and should be the product of your choice if you are looking for a durable and safe solution. Aftermarket windshields are cheaper than OEM, but are typically lower in quality.

At AIS Windshield Experts, we only use OEM glass to ensure your vehicle gets the highest quality and you have a safe driving experience.

Can I order any windshield?

The windshield in car, much like any other component of your vehicle, is designed specifically for that model. As discussed earlier, the windshield offers much more than clear vision for the driver. If your vehicle has a sophisticated ADAS, installing the wrong type of windshield can compromise it. Further, if the installation is not done properly, it can be a huge safety hazard for your vehicle and your life. Thus, it is important you choose trained professionals to pick and install the right auto glass.

Expert windshield repair and replacement – AIS Windshield Experts

The damage to the windshield in car can be easily fixed by a trustworthy professional. AIS Windshield Experts has an extensive distribution network of 90+ service centres in over 50+ cities. Get an authentic and accurate consultation from us and our trained technicians will take care of your windshield troubles.

So why wait? Contact AIS Windshield Experts for an at-your-door service today!